What is biobanking?
What is biobanking?
The short answer is "Yes." The biobank is a repository for biological samples that have been properly preserved and can be used to support future scientific research.
However, biobanking goes far beyond the realm of scientific research.
Time magazine named Biobanking one of the "10 Most Innovative Ideas" in 2009.
"Changing the World Now" They emphasized the importance of biobanks in elevating the quality of life
Potential of the information scientists could get from biological samples, and what this might mean
mean for future research.
Since then, biobanks have become instrumental in scientific advancement in this era of rapidly
emerging methodologies and scientific breakthroughs. What we now know is that
Biobanking does more than just store biological samples.
Preservation of biological data by appropriate logistical management and legislation
Biobanks are long-term, large scale storage libraries that store biological information.
accessed in order to answer scientific questions on command.
How to succeed in biobanking
The Mayo Clinic, which is located in Minnesota, was one of the first to adopt the biobank concept.
Currently, he manages one the largest biobanks in America for patient samples.
Recent research by their team defined the requirements.
The success of biobanking operations. We will discuss these issues in detail here.
brief:
1.Planning for Biobank
Eleanor Roosevelt wisely observed: "Those failing to plan, plan not to fail."
Biobank collection is not complete without a plan.
This plan will require a clearly defined set of goals and objectives that the researchers aim to
Ensure that the samples are stored in a safe and secure manner. There will be specific protocols for handling the samples.
Collection and processing. Storage requirements, including storage conditions and size, will be determined.
need to be defined, as well as the long-term monitoring requirements of the specific biobank.
2. Establishment of standard operating procedures
Standard Operating Procedures are fundamental to high-quality scientific outputs.
For scientific accuracy, consistent, repeatable, reliable, accurate results, SOPs can be used
Research is required.
The biobank should have a limit on sample variability.
and researchers responsible for sample collection and processing. Once the samples are received at the
biobank, which offers a variety of methods to monitor environmental conditions.
You can limit variability during preservation phase.
These procedures include but are not limited to the handling of the specimens and include
processing and receiving methodologies. In addition, it is necessary to implement the appropriate
All records management systems, equipment monitoring, facility security and monitoring will be provided by rest
These procedures can be established by the biobank.
3. Biobank staff training
To ensure the integrity of biobanking samples, staff must be able to communicate effectively.
A thorough understanding of internal procedures is essential. This training should be
They are competent to carry out their duties.
Biobanks where specimens are kept are especially important to ensure that staff are competent and trained.
all samples were taken from different locations. The Mayo Clinic review also includes further information.
recommend identifying a "super-trainer" - a member of the permanent staff complement
Responsible for the training of new employees. To ensure standardised delivery of training
consistency over a long period of time, since staff turnover is unavoidable.
4. Laboratory Information Management Systems
Once samples have been stored, maintaining integrity in the biobank cannot be completed.
The day-today activities at the biobank are crucial for maintaining the integrity of samples. These activities depend heavily on reliable Laboratory Information Management System for sample tracking, traceability, accountability and accountability
A LIMS, or laboratory information management system, is software that manages and tracks laboratory samples and all associated data. All details regarding the type, origin, collection, methods, transportation, storage, preservation (if necessary), and storage of each specimen should be documented.
LIMS can be adapted to meet the specific requirements of a biobank. It can also be integrated with specialised instruments and workflows in order to eliminate human error that could compromise biorepository integrity.
5. Processing after collection
The nature of biological samples may dictate the extent of processing required after the collection to allow for long-term storage.
As part of maintaining the integrity and quality of each sample, post-collection processing must be clearly defined in the established SOPs.
6. Disaster preparedness
Samples stored in a biobank are often scientifically valuable and irreplaceable.
Therefore, biobanks should account for potential disasters that might threaten the integrity of the samples being preserved. The biobank's location and the environment could pose potential dangers such as fires, flooding, and security breaches.
Biobanks should have an early detection system, but it is recommended that a designated team of crisis managers be appointed to create risk assessments and a tailored contingency plan in case of disaster.
South Africa's biobanking: Unique challenges and potential
South Africa, with a population of 60 million, has one of the highest rates for communicable disease, including HIV and Tuberculosis. There are also a growing number of metabolic diseases syndromes.
This high disease burden requires uniquely focused research and development to benefit a developing country with specific resource and logistical challenges.
One of South Africa's greatest threats to productivity is the limitations of its energy resources. The combination of aging infrastructure and a rapid increase in demand for coal, has caused rolling, scheduled power shortages in South Africa. While capacity-building plans are important for the future of SA's power, as well as renewable energy, it is still possible to experience unavoidable power shortages.
Because it is critical to keep samples at the right temperature, biorepositories located in South Africa must take into account their energy supply. For sustained operation, any SA-based biorepository that is reputable will need backup generators as well as stable energy storage devices.
Biobanking is a great option for your samples
With all the potential benefits of biobanking, it may seem like a service exclusively reserved for large research and academic institutions.
Fear not!